November 21, 2008

DOJ: 'No Indication' Mukasey Suffered Stroke or Heart-Related Problem

A Department of Justice spokeswoman said this morning that Attorney General Michael Mukasey appears to have suffered a fainting spell at Thursday night’s Federalist Society dinner.

“All of the tests have been reassuring. There is no indication that he suffered a stroke or any heart-related incident,” said the spokeswoman, Gina Talamona, according to CNN.

Mukasey, 67, is expected to remain at George Washington University Hospital for further tests.

The former federal judge slumped at his podium while speaking at the dinner. Security guards eased him to the ground and provided first aid, Talamona said. A doctor who was on the scene also provided first aid.

Another Department of Justice spokesman, Peter Carr, released a statement earlier calling Mukasey “conscious, conversant, and alert." The statement continued, "His vital statistics are strong and he is in good spirits. He is receiving excellent care and appreciates all of the good wishes and prayers he has received.”

UPDATE: Authority was never transferred to the deputy attorney general, Talamona said.

More of her comments, according to a Justice transcript: "He works long days, he is very active, it was a late-night speech under hot lights. So all indications are at this point it was basically a fainting spell. They are doing another round of routine tests this morning. He certainly wants to leave and get back to the office as soon as possible. In fact, he is more than ready."